10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to 50/50 (2011)

Description: Like '50/50', this classic film mixes humor and heartbreak in its portrayal of a family dealing with a mother's terminal illness. Both films excel in showing the complexities of relationships under the strain of serious health issues.

Fact: Won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Based on the novel by Larry McMurtry. The film marked a significant comeback for Shirley MacLaine's career.

Description: Like '50/50', 'Stepmom' deals with serious illness within a family context, blending drama with lighter moments. Both films explore how relationships evolve under the pressure of a life-changing diagnosis.

Fact: Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts initially clashed on set but later became friends. The film's ending was reshot after test audiences found it too depressing. Director Chris Columbus also directed 'Mrs. Doubtfire' and 'Home Alone'.

Description: This film shares with '50/50' a focus on family dynamics during a health crisis, exploring the emotional complexities of caregiving and terminal illness. Both films balance heartbreak with moments of warmth and humor.

Fact: Based on the novel by Anna Quindlen. Meryl Streep received an Oscar nomination for her performance. The title refers to the idea of finding one true thing to believe in during difficult times.

Description: Similar to '50/50', this film uses humor to approach the topic of terminal illness, focusing on making the most of life in the face of death. Both films highlight the importance of friendship and living life to the fullest during difficult times.

Fact: Inspired by a real-life bucket list written by the screenwriter's friend. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman improvised many of their scenes. The film sparked a trend of people creating their own bucket lists.

Description: This film, like '50/50', deals with the emotional and ethical complexities of illness within a family. Both explore how health crises test relationships and force characters to confront difficult decisions about life and death.

Fact: Based on the novel by Jodi Picoult. The ending was changed from the book, causing controversy among fans. Cameron Diaz took a significant pay cut to star in the film.

Description: This film serves as the reference point, skillfully balancing comedy and drama to tell the story of a young man dealing with a cancer diagnosis. It's praised for its authentic portrayal of illness, friendship, and personal growth, with a tone that's both heartfelt and humorous.

Fact: The screenplay was inspired by the writer Will Reiser's own experience with cancer. Joseph Gordon-Levitt trained with cancer patients to prepare for his role. The film's title refers to the 50% survival rate of the protagonist's cancer.

Description: Similar to '50/50', this film combines humor with the poignant story of a young person facing a life-threatening illness. It explores themes of friendship, mortality, and the awkwardness of adolescence, all while maintaining a light-hearted yet deeply emotional tone.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. It's based on the novel of the same name by Jesse Andrews. The movie features unique stop-motion animation sequences.

Description: This film shares with '50/50' a focus on young people dealing with cancer, blending romance, humor, and tragedy. Both films handle their heavy themes with sensitivity and wit, offering a bittersweet look at love and life in the face of illness.

Fact: Based on the bestselling novel by John Green. The film's title comes from a line in Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar'. It was a box office success, grossing over $300 million worldwide.

Description: Like '50/50', 'The Big Sick' blends humor with serious themes of illness and relationships. Both films explore the impact of a health crisis on a romantic relationship, using comedy to lighten heavy emotional moments. The protagonists in both films navigate love and personal growth amidst medical challenges.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life courtship between Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon. It was nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the 90th Academy Awards. The movie was produced by Judd Apatow, known for his work in comedy-dramas.

Description: Like '50/50', 'Wit' is a poignant exploration of a cancer patient's experience, blending intellectual depth with emotional resonance. Both works use humor and raw honesty to depict the personal journey of facing mortality.

Fact: Originally a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Margaret Edson. Emma Thompson starred in and executive produced the HBO adaptation. Thompson prepared by shaving her head and interviewing cancer patients.